BFUng 10 – Mahler's First Symphony

Janáček’s Sokol Fanfare - better known as the rousing opening to his Sinfonietta - uses arresting brass fanfares to depict a falcon soaring over a rugged landscape in music that is both bracing and unusual.

After Mendelssohn’s equally refreshing Violin Concerto in the hands of Haugesund-born violinist Brage Sæbø comes music of passion and despair on a titanic scale. With his Symphony No 1, Gustav Mahler depicted his own youthful awakening to the world while also writing the first chapter of his spiritual autobiography.

This music of emotional extremes moves from sublime nature music through tawdry dances into a sinister funeral march, before plunging into the most infectious and tremendous exultation as it celebrates the sheer joy of life. Experience this music from the young Mahler being brought to live by Vestland’s finest young musicians and future professionals.